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Did you know that January is National Cervical Cancer Screening Month? Cervical cancer is one of those “below the belt” cancers that, According to the American Cancer Society, can often be found early, and sometimes even prevented entirely, by having regular Pap tests. If detected early, cervical cancer is one of the most successfully treatable cancers.

What is Cervical Cancer?

The Free Dictionary defines cervical cancer as a disease in which the cells of the cervix become abnormal and start to grow uncontrollably, forming tumors. According to The Free Dictionary cervical cancer is the fifth most common cancer among women aged 35-54, and the third most common cancer of the female reproductive tract. In some developing countries, it is the most common type of cancer. It generally begins as an abnormality in the cells on the outside of the cervix. Approximately 90% of cervical cancers are squamous cell carcinomas. This type of cancer originates in the thin, flat, squamous cells on the surface of the ectocervix, the part of the cervix that is next to the vagina. (Squamous cells are the thin, flat cells of the surfaces of the skin and cervix and linings of various organs.) Another 10% of cervical cancers are of the adenocarcinoma type. This cancer originates in the mucus-producing cells of the inner or endocervix, near the body of the uterus. Occasionally, the cancer may have characteristics of both types and is called adenosquamous carcinoma or mixed carcinoma. Read more information from The Free Dictionary about causes, symptoms, diagnosis and more here.

Information for Patients: People need to research information about prevention and treatment options, both medical and natural, for themselves. The resources below may be of interest to anyone considering ways to prevent or fight cervical cancer.

• The American Cancer Society: Cervical Cancer
• Livestrong.com: Foods to Prevent Cervical Cancer
• Cervical Cancer Prevention: 10 Diet Tips for Susceptible Women
• Hallelujah Acres Testimonies: Read About People Who Have Been Helped in the Fight Against Disease by Changing Their Diet
• A Forum for Patients from Cancer Compass: Cervical Cancer Message Board
• Tips on Cervical Cancer from WebMD
• Food Highlight: Green Tea Health Benefits
• www.tealsthedeal.com: The Foundation for Gynecological Cancer Awareness, Education & Support

Information… and a large dose of hope… is crucial in the cancer battle. If you’re interested in some of the ways I’m learning to use nutrition to fight stage four colon cancer Click Here.

Are you fighting cervical cancer, or is someone you love facing this battle? What other resources would you recommend to women fighting cervical cancer?

“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.”  -Helen Keller

Local Business Highlight: Did you know that getting your annual pap smear is an important way to screen for cervical cancer? Dr. Carol Miller, Dr. Marianne Shantillo and Karen Castoro, FNP serve the obstetrical and gynecological needs of women in Greater Binghamton with individual attention and personal care. Their friendly team can be reached by visiting www.carolmillermd.com. Follow them on Facebook by clicking here.

Find more great local businesses in The Survivor’s Guide.